Make sure to breathe through your nose when exercising to prevent dental problems and to more fully reap the benefits of your workout.
Breathing through the mouth during endurance activities creates an environment for bacteria and cavities. Studies have found that endurance athletes have a greater risk of developing dental problems due to mouth-breathing promoting bacteria and causing dry mouth, as well as from consuming sugary workout beverages.
When you breathe through your nose, your body prepares the air for your lungs, filtering and humidifying the air. More nitric oxide enters your lungs which reduces blood pressure, increases lung capacity and kills bacteria, viruses and other germs. If you find that you need to lower the intensity of your workout when you first start paying attention to breathing through your nose, then do so. Your body will quickly adjust. Feel your lower belly expand with your breath, and expel all the old air as you breath out and feel your bellybutton pull in toward your spine.
For more detailed information about why breathing through your nose is so important, watch this video.
Yours in Health,
Dr. Erin O’Maley
